Indulgent Five-Cheese Ziti: A Comforting Recipe for Cheese Lovers!
If you’re a fan of cheesy pasta dishes, the Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno is a must-try recipe that takes comfort food to an entirely new level. Try this recipe for 5 cheese ziti! Inspired by the beloved Olive Garden classic, this indulgent baked ziti combines a rich blend of marinara and Alfredo sauces with a melty assortment of five different cheeses. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and irresistible gooeyness. Here’s how to make your own Five-Cheese Ziti!
Ingredients
To create this cheesy masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Ziti
- 1 lb ziti pasta: This short, tubular pasta is perfect for catching all the cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: For a tangy tomato base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This adds richness to the sauce without relying on canned Alfredo.
- 15 oz diced tomatoes: Adds texture and flavor (optional).
- 1 tsp sugar: To balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese blend: This can be a mix of grated Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago cheeses.
- 1/2 cup Fontina cheese: For a creamy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese: This will be used both in the sauce and as a topping.
Topping
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: For a crispy, golden crust.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the crunchy topping.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses flavor into the topping.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps bind the breadcrumbs and adds richness.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and sugar. Heat over medium until it begins to simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese blend, 1/2 cup of Fontina cheese, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and bubbly.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large baking dish or oven-safe skillet, combine the cooked ziti with the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture evenly and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese across the top.
Step 4: Create the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the ziti.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, uncovered, until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra crispy crust, you can broil it for the last few minutes—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the ziti to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra flair.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~650 | 33% |
| Total Fat | ~30g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | ~18g | 90% |
| Cholesterol | ~90mg | 30% |
| Sodium | ~800mg | 35% |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~70g | 25% |
| Dietary Fiber | ~4g | 14% |
| Sugars | ~8g | – |
| Protein | ~30g | 60% |
| Calcium | ~600mg | 46% |
| Iron | ~3mg | 17% |
Variations and Tips
- Add Protein: Enhance your dish with proteins like cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef.
- Make it Spicy: Incorporate crushed red pepper or spicy marinara for a kick.
- Make-Ahead and Freezing: You can prepare the ziti, assemble it without baking, and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to add additional cooking time when baking from frozen.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, add a splash of marinara sauce to prevent drying and microwave or bake at 350°F for 10-20 minutes, covered with foil.
Conclusion
This Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno is a celebration of flavor that will delight cheese lovers everywhere. With its gooey consistency and savory tastes, it’s comfort food redefined. So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and indulge in this cheesy delight tonight!